The death toll from the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has climbed above 1,300, with health officials warning the virus is spreading at an unprecedented pace despite efforts to contain it.

The worsening crisis has prompted renewed concern from international health agencies over the risk of further regional transmission.

Authorities say more than 2,500 confirmed infections have been recorded since the outbreak was declared in May, making it one of the fastest-growing Ebola epidemics on record.

The outbreak is centred in the eastern province of Ituri and is caused by the Bundibugyo strain of the virus, for which there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment.

The World Health Organization has warned that many infections are occurring outside known chains of transmission, making contact tracing increasingly difficult.

Violence by armed groups, attacks on health facilities, shortages of medical supplies and public distrust have also hampered response efforts, while many deaths continue to occur outside healthcare settings.

Neighbouring Uganda has largely contained a smaller outbreak linked to the DRC through rapid surveillance and isolation measures, but health authorities remain on alert as cross-border movement continues.

International agencies are supporting the Congolese government’s response, including testing experimental therapies and strengthening surveillance.

Although Tonga faces no immediate risk from the outbreak, public health experts say the situation highlights the importance of strong disease surveillance and international cooperation.

The DRC’s experience also underscores the challenges of controlling infectious diseases in conflict-affected areas, where insecurity and limited access can significantly slow emergency health responses.

Health officials continue to urge global support as efforts intensify to bring the outbreak under control.